Tracy joined IHG as an Executive Committee member in December 2005, taking responsibility for global talent management, leadership development, employee reward strategy and implementation. In 2010 she assumed responsibility for Group Operations Support, driving operational best practice across the business and she continues in this expanded role.

Commenting on her appointment, David Webster, IHG’s non-executive Chairman, said: “Our ability to attract, develop and retain top talent across the business is increasingly important as we implement our ambitious expansion plans. With over 335,000 people working in our hotels around the world and the need to recruit a further 160,000 as we open new hotels over the next three to four years, our people agenda plays a major role in our growth strategy. Tracy is an outstanding executive and her role is central to our strategy. I am delighted to welcome her to the Board.”

Richard Solomons, Chief Executive of IHG, added: “Operating in a service based industry, our people lie at the heart of delivering great guest experiences. Tracy has transformed how we think about this over the last six years and her appointment to the Board is recognition of the importance of our people to our success.”

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